A heartwarming and emotional reunion awaits as Mary Jane Veloso’s family prepares to visit her in Indonesia ahead of her anticipated transfer to the Philippines. The trip, set for Sunday, December 15, will bring together her parents, children, lawyer, and supporters, marking a crucial step in Mary Jane’s long-awaited journey back home.
A Message of Faith and Hope
Mark Danielle Candelaria, Mary Jane’s eldest son, shared a touching message inspired by his mother’s enduring faith.
“Ma, this is what you always told me—to trust in God,” he said in an interview with 24 Oras Weekend. His words reflect the family’s unwavering hope despite the years of uncertainty and struggle.
The Visit Details
Accompanying Mary Jane’s parents and two children are her lawyer, Atty. Edre Olalia, officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and a representative from the OFW advocacy group Migrante.
Her father, Cesar Veloso, expressed gratitude to the countless supporters who stood by their family through the years. He also extended a special thanks to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto for his role in this significant development.
Mary Jane had a humble request for her family: to bring pastillas to share with her friends in prison and to clean her room back home in Nueva Ecija in anticipation of her return.
A Miraculous Homecoming
Reports indicate that Mary Jane may be transferred to the Philippines as early as December 20. She described the planned transfer as nothing short of a miracle.
“This is a miracle because it still feels like a dream. Every morning, I would wake up thinking of my hopes, unsure if they would ever come true,” she said. “I always prayed, ‘Lord, just one chance to go home and be with my family.’ And God answered that prayer.”
The Road Ahead
While the transfer is a moment of celebration, Mary Jane’s legal battle is far from over. Once she returns to the Philippines, she will appear in court to testify against her alleged illegal recruiter.
“The only remaining evidence is her testimony because she filed the complaint against the illegal recruiter,” said Atty. Olalia.
Mary Jane’s Story
Mary Jane Veloso, now 39, was arrested in 2010 after authorities discovered 2.6 kilograms of heroin hidden in her suitcase. Sentenced to death, her case sparked a national outcry in the Philippines.
Mary Jane has maintained her innocence, asserting that she was tricked by an international drug syndicate. In 2015, she narrowly avoided execution after her suspected recruiter was arrested in the Philippines.
A Symbol of Hope
Mary Jane’s journey has been one of resilience, faith, and the power of collective support. Her family’s visit and her impending transfer are seen as significant victories not just for her but for countless overseas Filipino workers who face similar struggles.
As the Veloso family prepares for this milestone moment, their story continues to inspire hope and faith in the face of adversity.
